Generations matter. We each carry a vital part of the story. We must understand one another and communicate more effectively. Millennials, you have been commissioned for this hour. Those that have gone before us have great wisdom for us to glean. Together we are giving the next generation of Americans hope. Together, members of all generations, can ensure that America's greatest days are still ahead. .

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Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Discovering Religious Freedom in New England

I walk away from a whirlwind tour of New England with this poignant reminder: a small group of people from all across their country came together and made a trek across a vast ocean for a specific purpose. They vacated their homes, left their families, and endured horrendous living conditions, started building homes in the friged winter, sacrificed their lives and all they had ever known and loved for this simple reason: they wanted the FREEDOM to worship God how THEY wanted.

That's it. That is why the Pilgrims - and those to follow - came to America in the early 1600's.

Their commitment to Christ, and His principles were so strong, and deeply rooted in their souls, that they had "no choice" but to find freedom for expression - even if that meant they must make a home in a wild unknown world.

When I look in the mirror and consider, as someone who has benefited from religious freedom, it is up to me and a grand few as to whether this same liberty is lost or preserved for tomorrow's generation. My chest gets heavy. Yet I will not hide from the fact that even now, in this hour in America, I am a care-taker of this right. The stark truth that it's a hard battle, one easy to let go of, or dismiss for generations to follow - is cold reality. Yet in the process of considering what others have done before me to obtain something so dear and sweet, I am re-affirmed that my choice to put elbow grease into all that I can is well worth it. I cannot turn back.

Many have heard me say up until now that I hope to meet the Founding Fathers when I get to heaven and to hear them say "Thank you for what you have done to keep our country free". But after this fresh revelation on the Mayflower in Plymouth 2014, I think I'll be changing those words. Now, in addition to the Founding Fathers, I also plan to meet the Puritans, the Pilgrims, and all those who fit into the "we sacrificed a lot so that you as a nation could worship God how you wanted" hall of fame. I realize I will answer to a huge cloud of witnesses. But with God has my final Judge, if they look at me and say "You helped keep, preserve, solidify and pass on the torch of freedom" I will know that I have done well.

Oh Father, please let it be that religious freedom will not disappear in my lifetime, or in America's centuries to come. May I work to pass it on to generations to come, regardless the cost, conditions of the battle, or length of time. Show me how God. Show me how. Religious freedom, and all freedoms that coincide, is just too precious to lose. - ajh

Welcome

For those of you who know me, I've enjoyed using Facebook as a form of education and networking. I love following the latest news and trends and understanding the issues impacting our culture. But I also think it's vital important to find solutions, while always looking at things with the hope of Christ.

I've decided to 'explore' a blog which would allow me to share even more personal insights, pieces I'm writing, and offer encouragement.

As I travel the nation, talk to conservative groups, listen to wise mentors we all see a void of the young generation from the market place. Very few care about the decisions happening in our culture let alone see how leaders decisions impact us; don't understand the consequences of the absence of morals on society; that truth is not defined by what comes through the internet or tv; and that our lives are meant for more than just pleasure and passing the time.

God is doing GOOD things, so let's get the conversation started.

(Email me! amyjaynehawkins@gmail.com)

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About Me

Born in Detroit MI - a town worth investing inRaised in the organic nature - grew up on a farmLived a not-so-normal life - home schooledSought the best education: Christian liberal arts educationStepped foot into the war zone and loved it: hello political arena!

Met friends; said good-bye to those who left early; rafted down the rapids; learned to rotate my tires; fell in love with words; became a kid again mid-20's; am duplicit in that am girly-girl in hygiene, but love a good guy movie; still default back to Anne of Green Gables as a heroine; will always consider Annie a bosom bud; longs for the days of building forts with Heidi & Megan; is so grateful for the price parents paid for home education; misses dancing with her Grandpa; grateful for her sisters who held her hand as she was listless; loves seeing her brother as a canvas painted by prayer; loves laughing and listening and learning ... (and so much more. But we'll leave that for another conversation)

Amy Jayne Hawkins ... part of a generation that was meant to live, but many did not get a chance.

For those that have gone before and paid the price: thank youFor fellow friends and neighbors that never left the doctor's office: I am sorryFor those that fight to breathe now and are yet to be conceived: I'll be your voice.